The Swan Songs of Central City - Part 4

[Kurt Maechner]

Here is part 4 of a series I have been working on to chronicle the history of the C&Sng displays and restorations in Central City.  

This fourth part covers the Ashby's work to get a locomotive from Central America to run on their hoped-for tourist line out of Central City.  The process of acquiring locomotive No. 36 from El Salvador gets tricky, and they are almost without an engine before meeting with important members of Central City to acquire a franchise.  Into the scene comes IRCA No. 44 through a helpful Englishman.  The group in Central City, then, acquires tools and materials with help from the C&S and D&RGW and begins track laying.  Plus, some former narrow gauge Rio Grande gondolas become the rolling stock

I'm hoping some of you will enjoy hearing the story, but I am also sharing in hopes to learn more.  I would be happy to receive any information that my readers, especially those involved with rail restoration work in Central City, may have to add to, adjust, or correct the content.  

Enjoy,
Kurt

Aug. 20 1968 Jim Ozment photo-Jeff Terry collection